Consumers adopt make-do-and-mend mentality

British consumers have become more conscious of the need to economise, with many now opting to repair rather than replace.

Research has shown that a make-do-and-mend attitude has become the order of the day as people look to save money in all areas of their lives. According to a report by the Irish Times newspaper, consumers are turning their back on the "disposable culture" and instead turning to specialists like cobblers to mend their shoes and appliance repair firms to get their washing machine back up and running.

The newspaper said one domestic appliance repair firm has even seen an increase in the number of people waiting for at least two of their products to break down before asking an engineer to visit, just to make sure they get the best value from a call-out.

Greater importance is also being placed on energy efficiency and the need to turn off appliances such as televisions when they are not in use. It's estimated that turning off appliances rather than leaving the standby light on, and switching off lights when a room isn't in use, can save a household £50 a year.